When it comes to insulating your home, quality is much better than quantity. It’s vastly preferable to start with better materials and see them age gracefully than go the cheaper route and regret it years later.

Many homeowners wonder about foam spray insulation. But is it more effective? What are the downsides? Below, we’ll explain foam spray insulation to help you determine whether it’s the right choice for you. 

Foam Spray Benefits 

There are two main types of insulation. There’s the fiberglass insulation (that pink, soft, fabric-like material), and then there’s foam spray insulation. Foam spray insulation is, you guessed it, the type that you spray out in thick, foamy chunks. 

Foam spray has two main types: open and closed cells. Regardless of what kind of foam spray you choose, it’s much more expensive than fiberglass. 

However, foam insulation spray is much more effective than fiberglass, partly because it is more energy efficient. It often saves homeowners 40-60% in energy costs.  

It also outperforms fiberglass insulation in many other capacities, such as:  

  • Superior air leakage protection
  • Improves air quality 
  • Superior heat retention 
  • Better maintains structural integrity 
  • Prevents air and moisture infiltration 
  • Reduces HVAC strain
  • Creates a high sound barrier

As a result, foam spray is a much more effective insulation material than fiberglass. Homes that reside in colder climates should consider using spray insulation, as it better fortifies your home against bitter temperatures. 

How Does Foam Spray Work? 

There’s no denying that foam spray is a much more effective insulate than fiberglass. But how does this technology work? 

Traditional fiberglass insulation traps cooler temperatures in its glass fibers, creating tiny air bubbles. The problem with this is that there are many gaps between fibers, through which those cooler temperatures can escape. 

On the other hand, spray insulation contains a foaming agent, which expands up to 100 times its original volume and then solidifies into a rigid material. As a result, foaming sprays reach those nooks and crannies while solidifying the gaps. 

Foam Spray Insulation Drawbacks 

But there must be some drawbacks to foam spray insulation, right? 

As you may have guessed, the main disadvantage to spray foam is its price. Foam is roughly double the price of fiberglass, sometimes even more. 

As a result, if you’re operating on a tight budget, fiberglass insulation may be the better option for you and your home. 

There are also more drawbacks, such as: 

  • Long cure and dry time 
  • Can attract water damage
  • Hardened spray can shrink (and become less effective)
  • Dangerous to apply 

Still, for the experienced hand, the drawbacks are relatively minor compared to how effective foam spray insulation is. 

Parting Thoughts on Foam Spray Effectiveness 

Choosing the correct insulation can be an overwhelming experience. Before committing to one type over the other, do as much research as you need to determine which type fits your budget and home’s needs. 

For the most effective insulation, consider foam spray. However, if you’re on a budget, you may be better off with fiberglass insulation. 

Regardless of your choice, make sure you speak with a certified company to help you navigate through this decision.